The Citizens’ Independent Transportation Trust’s new members share a dedication to higher education and the expansion of transit services

The Citizens' Independent Transportation Trust’s two newest members – Harry Hoffman and Miguel Murphy – are united in their commitment to improve the lives of Miami-Dade County residents through higher education and the betterment of local transit services.

Hoffman, who was appointed to the CITT by Miami-Dade County Commissioner Roberto J. Gonzalez to represent District 11, is a seasoned business and academic leader with more than 34 years of experience across various industries, including finance, education, and government. He has held significant roles at institutions such as Citicorp, the University of Miami, and Miami Dade College, where he served as the Homestead Campus President, and has been instrumental in developing numerous academic programs and community initiatives.

As a professor and advocate for smart transit solutions, Hoffman believes that efficient transportation is key to economic growth and community development.

"Citizens who wish to improve themselves and the lives of their families can only do so with better maintenance and expansion of transportation. Serving on the CITT allows me to bring both my academic expertise and personal commitment to improving transit for all residents," Hoffman said. "I am eager to work on solutions that will make public transportation more accessible, sustainable, and reliable for our community."

Murphy, who was appointed to the CITT by the Miami-Dade County’s Board of County Commissioners Chairman, Oliver G. Gilbert, III to represent District 1, is the Executive Director of Student Engagement and Community Partnerships at Miami Dade College.

For the past two decades, Murphy has served in various capacities in learning Resources, Academic Affairs, and Student Services, in roles such as a Student Success Manager, Adjunct Faculty in the School of Business, Trade and Transportation, Senior Academic and Career Advisor at North Campus of Miami Dade College. In addition, Murphy served on the Student Services Leadership Team as Director of Student Recruitment and Director of the New Student Center at the Wolfson Campus of Miami Dade College.

An avid transit rider, often commuting to work via Metrobus, Metrorail, Metromover, and Tri-Rail, Murphy said he wants to work with fellow Trust Members to expand transit services, particularly services on the north end of the County.

"Miami-Dade County deserves a transportation system that works for everyone—one that enhances economic mobility, reduces commute times, and is environmentally conscious," Murphy said. "As a member of the CITT, I’m committed to ensuring that our transportation network can meet the challenges of today and the future."

The appointment of these two experienced education leaders with a passion for improving transit services represents a significant step forward for the CITT, reinforcing its mission to guide projects that serve the needs of Miami-Dade residents, said the CITT’s Executive Director, Javier A. Betancourt.

“Both Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Murphy understand the critical intersection of transportation, education, and economic development, and are eager to advance initiatives that create more interconnected and thriving communities in our County,” Betancourt said.

The CITT is a 15-member volunteer board that plays an essential role in overseeing how proceeds from the half-penny transportation Surtax are invested in local transit projects, such as the expansion of bus and rail services, improving bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, enhancing first-last mile connections, and more.

Through its collective efforts, the CITT ensures the efficient and equitable distribution of surtax funds to enhance mobility and accessibility throughout Miami-Dade.

The Trust is currently looking to fill vacancies for seats in Miami-Dade County districts 9, 10 and 12. If you are interested in serving on the Trust, or know of someone who would make a great candidate, visit the CITT website and click on the ‘Member Recruitment’ tab on the left side of the homepage to learn more and download and application, or call 305-375-1357 for more information.

You can also visit the CITT website to learn more about the CITT and projects in the People’s Transportation Plan. Connect with us on social media via Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads and LinkedIn.